Olympic medalist Aly Raisman discussed her physical recovery and her efforts to advocate for women’s health in an interview on the program "Healthful." Raisman spoke about the long-term impact of elite athletic training, her experiences as a survivor of sexual assault, and the difficulties women face when navigating the healthcare system.
Raisman competed in gymnastics at the Olympic level, where she reported training for six and a half to seven hours a day, as often as six days a week. She stated that her focus on performance during that period led to burnout and physical exhaustion. A decade since she last competed, Raisman said she does not feel her body has fully recovered from the years of overtraining and anxiety.
The gymnast highlighted the importance of self-advocacy, particularly in medical settings. Raisman shared that she currently experiences worsening menstrual pain and has encountered waitlists for specialists. She attributed these delays to systemic issues rather than individual physicians, noting that healthcare providers are often overworked and their mental health should also be a priority.
To assist with the stress of medical appointments, Raisman suggested that patients bring a "buddy" for support. She recounted an instance where she accompanied a person during an IUD implantation; when she could tell the patient felt vulnerable, Raisman asked if they wanted to stop. When the patient said yes, Raisman communicated this to the doctor. The patient later told Raisman they would have fainted if she had not intervened.
Raisman noted that she is frequently approached by survivors who have remained silent for decades, including one individual who reported being abused 50 years prior. By translating her platform into health advocacy, she aims to encourage individuals to speak up for their needs rather than "pushing through" pain.
A person following Raisman’s advice might bring a support person to appointments to help ensure their concerns are heard. The gymnast's focus on the exhaustion of medical staff also draws attention to the mental health of healthcare workers. Raisman continues to encourage the development of supportive communities to help individuals manage recovery and medical advocacy.